South Dakota Wildland Fire is planning a prescribed burn near the intersection of Highway 16A and Wildlife Loop Road in coordination with Custer State Park on Wednesday (Jan. 31, 2024). Mop-up and monitoring will continue in the following days. If weather conditions are not favorable for any reason, the prescribed burn will be rescheduled.
Firefighters are planning to burn approximately 100 acres. Objectives of the burn are to increase the diversity of forage and habitat for wildlife, improve native grass growth, and provide safe and quality training for firefighting staff. Weather conditions will be monitored closely to ensure prescribed fire conditions align with management objectives for the burn.
Prescribed fire is used to maintain healthy native vegetation and is needed to prevent the encroachment of invasive species. Fire also reduces hazardous debris and dead vegetation buildup, which can fuel wildfires.
Smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas and can linger for several days after ignition. Fire crews will secure, patrol, and monitor fire lines as appropriate for public and firefighter safety. For more information on smoke management, click here.
Custer State Park will be open as usual, but visitors should expect delays near the prescribed burn area. For more information about park accessibility contact Lydia Austin, 605.394.2693, Custer State Park Visitor Services Manager.
South Dakota Wildland Fire is an agency of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.
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